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Review

Intro

Lake Lurleen State Park is without a doubt West Alabama’s premiere mountain biking trail system. Countless hours and work have been put in over the years to maintain the trails at Lake Lurleen and make it one of the best trail systems in the state. The trails at Lake Lurleen have something for everyone, but this isn’t a system suited for quick rides right after work. Rather, Lake Lurleen is better suited to planned weekend rides with more than 22 miles of trails that close at sunset.The main loop that goes around the lake should be tackled only by experienced riders, though other trails are available for riders of all skill levels. The trail is technical in places and can be very fast for riders looking for speed.A ride around the lake is 14 miles, so riders going seven miles either have to finish the other seven miles or turn around and ride back the seven miles they came. There are also four loops located at various places along the way for riders tackling the main trail. Although the trails are well-maintained, trails on the farthest side of the lake are very remote and cell phone coverage is spotty at best.For shorter, less challenging rides, many riders bike one direction three or four miles in, then turn around and hit all of the loops on their way back. There is also a loop called the Ridge Trail that is pretty close to the start of the main trail. It is four-and-a-half miles long and stays relatively close to the main part of the park.

What Makes It Great

Lake Lurleen is well-maintained by the West Alabama Mountain Biking Association and offers some of the longest and best rides in the area. Many of the trails also hug the 250-acre lake, which is nearly one-and-a-half miles long by one mile wide, offering scenic views from many vantage points in the park.

Who is Going to Love It

Riders of all levels looking to spend a day biking in a scenic 1,625-acre retreat. Even riders who don’t want to spend an entire day biking have a plethora of options once they’re inside the park. Trails can also be used for hiking, and fishing piers, camping areas, boat-launch areas, and other recreational facilities provide a range of activities which are especially great for long weekend trips.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Lake Lurleen does not allow riders on the trails after dark, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to ride the system during daylight hours. As with all state parks, Lake Lurleen charges a day-use fee of $4 per person. Camping is available for anyone wanting to pitch a tent and ride for several days. For day-use visitors, the park is open 7 a.m. to sunset. Dogs are allowed on leashes. More information about trails and detailed maps are available at http://alapark.com/lake-lurleen-state-park and http://www.wambarides.org/trails/lake-lurleen/.